Immobility Monitoring System

ABSTRACT

The invention relates to a system for monitoring inactivity or immobility of a person. The invention further relates to monitoring other situations where differing periods of time will need to be accurately monitored over days and or weeks.

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The invention relates to a system and method for monitoring inactivityor immobility of a person.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

Providing reliable health care solutions is important both for patients,their families and their careers. As people age, they often become lessmobile and less capable of caring for themselves. These people none theless wish to continue to remain independent and continue to live intheir own homes for as long as they possibly can.

As these independent seniors age the responsibility for their caregradually passes to careers, friends and families. The types ofvulnerable people requiring support generally fall into two groups;those who will eventually require constant attention and those who mayrequire minimal supervision or assistance occasionally.

This invention is focused on the latter group, particularly but notexclusively individuals who are living alone. One of the greatest fearsmany in this group face are unrecoverable falls, or medical collapse.For many the possibility of lying undiscovered for many hours or evendays and possible death are very real.

This invention has been designed to monitor for these events andautomatically summon assistance.

A number of monitoring devices are available which can detect theactivity of a person which is programmed to alert a contact person incase of prolonged inactivity, suggesting an emergency situation may haveoccurred. Such devices include monitoring sensors which record themovement of a person around their living area.

However, none of the devices allow monitoring of immobility of a personbased on the ability of a device to be programmed by the user, withindividuality differing immobility periods for every hour of every dayand every day of the week.

It is an object of the invention to provide a reliable and effectivesystem to detect immobility of a person.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

The present invention provides a system for monitoring the immobility ofa person comprising one or a series of sensors or monitors and one or aseries of programmable timers wherein the timers may be programmed fromminute to minute or day to day.

Preferably, the system functions as an intruder alarm.

Preferably, the sensors/monitors are programmed to record dailyactivities of a person to produce the data obtained from the record,which is used to formulate a behavioral pattern report for theindividual person.

Preferably, the program resets each time a movement activity is detectedand recorded.

Preferably, the program records an emergency each time a daily recordedactivity has not been activated.

Preferably, contact personnel is alerted as a result of the depressingof a remote emergency button in the event of an emergency.

Preferably, the contact personnel is/are alerted as a result of apanic/emergency button depression.

Preferably, the device monitors and calls for assistance if the ambienttemperature reaches and records below or above the pre set parameters.

Preferably, the system further comprises a battery standby systeminstalled to provide full operational capabilities for up to 12 hours,independent of any external power source.

In another aspect, the present invention provides a system formonitoring the immobility of a person comprising an immobility sensor,an immobility detection device, mobility activity indicators, mobilitynotifier, a controller unit and compatible software and hardware.

Preferably, the system further comprises one or a series of programmabletimers.

Preferably, the timers may be programmed from minute to minute or day today.

In another aspect, the present invention provides a method of monitoringthe immobility of a person comprising a system according to theinvention.

Preferably, the system or method according to the invention furthercomprises an emergency alert button.

Preferably, the button is worn by the user or placed near the user.

Preferably, the alarm is activated by two phases, Stage 1 and Stage 2.

Preferably, a predetermined period of inactivity is detected by theImmobility sensor thereby activating alarm Stage 1.

Preferably, alarm Stage 2 is activated if the user fails to intervene orrespond to alarm stage 1.

Preferably, if the user fails to intervene or respond to Stage 1 alarm,and the Stage 2 alarm is activated, an automatic emergency alert messageis sent to an emergency contact or contacts.

Preferably, the sensors or monitors are programmed to record all dailyactivities of all persons in the home, to produce activity reports.

Preferably, data from the daily activity report is used to formulate abehavioral pattern for the individual person/user.

Preferably, the activity report can be used to generate an actual andaverage week report in the life of the user.

Preferably, the activity report can be used to generate an optimumimmobility default setting report for the Immobility Sensor for each dayof a week.

In another aspect, the invention provides a method of monitoring theimmobility of a person comprising:

-   -   activating a sensor which detects a period of activity;    -   detecting and recording a period of activity;    -   activating a stage 1 alarm at the end of an allotted        pre-programmed inactivity period;    -   activating a stage 2 alarm if no response is received from the        person during stage 1 alarm; and    -   sending an emergency message to a nominated contact(s).

Preferably, the Stage 1 alarm is activated upon detection of apredetermined period of inactivity.

Preferably, the Stage 2 alarm is activated if the user fails tointervene or respond to the stage 1 alarm.

Preferably, if the user fails to intervene or respond to Stage 1 alarm,and the Stage 2 alarm is activated, an automatic emergency alert messageis sent to an emergency contact or contacts.

Preferably, the invention provides a method for use of the systemaccording to the invention.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 illustrates an example of the recording of a Schedule as anembodiment of the present invention.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

The present invention provides a device or system for monitoring theimmobility of a person, particularly but not exclusively an individualwho is living alone, comprising one or a series of sensors and a seriesof programmable timers wherein the timers may be programmed from secondto second, minute to minute and day to day.

This invention has been designed to provide a degree of reassurance bymonitoring the movement of the individual, and providing a call forassistance if the individual fails to remain active throughout theirhome.

An additional optional feature of this invention is its ability tomonitor the ambient temperature in the home of the user and summonassistance if the environment is too hot or too cold for the occupant.This invention is designed to automatically summon assistance if extremechanges in temperature are detected.

In another embodiment, the invention provides the device furthercomprising a battery standby system installed to provide fulloperational capabilities for up to 12 hours, independent of any externalpower source. This feature is a unique feature in as much as the systemdoes not need to send its information to an external computer orprocessing device for analysis, in order to summon assistance in anemergency.

In another embodiment, the invention provides the device furthercomprising a storage area within the device to record and store manydays and weeks of all activity/alarm histories. Where upon if the devicedetects the presence of a removable memory storage device, theImmobility Sensor system will automatically download the contents ofthis activity recorded data to the removable memory device.

Thus, the present invention provides a system for monitoring theimmobility of a person comprising of one or a series of sensors and oneor a series of programmable timers wherein the timers may be programmedfrom minute to minute and day to day. If the user of the device fails tobe detected moving around their home, the device will enter alarm modes1 and 2 and summon help for the user.

Preferably in alarm state 1, the device will ask the user to indicatethat they are well before it calls out for assistance.

Preferably, the device functions as an intruder alarm.

Preferably, the device functions as a fire detection alarm.

Preferably, the device functions as an extreme ambient temperature alarm

Preferably, the device functions as a panic/emergency button alarm

Preferably, the device functions as an immobility detection alarm

Preferably, the device will detect movement and ask the user to returnthe device to immobility, detection mode when the owner returns to theirhome.

Preferably, the device records all movements and system alarmactivations.

Preferably, the sensors/monitors are programmed to record all dailyactivities of all persons in the home to produce activity reports. Thesereports will contain many days or weeks of activities.

Preferably, the data from the daily activity report is used to formulatea behavioral pattern for the individual person/user. This report can beexported to nominated careers. This report will be used to display andalert if any unusual patterns of behavior are evident.

Preferably the activity report can be used to generate an actual oraverage week report in the life of the user.

Preferably the activity report can be used to generate an optimumimmobility default setting report for the Immobility Sensor for each dayof a week. This report will aid in establishing and setting up theoptimum periods to alarm tables for the new user.

Preferably, the hours/minutes will reset each time a movement activityis detected.

Preferably, the program records an emergency each time a daily recordedactivity period reaches zero.

Preferably, contact personnel are alerted as a result of an immobilityemergency.

Preferably contact personnel is/are alerted as a result of apanic/emergency button depression.

Preferably, the device monitors and calls for assistance if the ambienttemperature reaches and records below or above the pre set parameters.

Preferably, the device further comprises a battery standby systeminstalled to provide operational capabilities for up to 12 hours,independent of any external power source.

Preferably, the device monitors and alerts the user if there is a lossof power to the device.

Preferably, the device monitors and alerts the user if there is afailure of the telephone line.

Preferably the device will operate with 240v power supply.

Preferably the device will operate with 110v power supply

Preferable the device will operate with 12v power supply.

Preferably the device will continue to fully function while on batterybackup.

Preferably the device will operate when hard wired to a PSDN line.

Preferably the device will operate when connected to a mobile GSM orsimilar network.

Preferably the device will operate when connected to the internet.

Preferably the device will operate when connected to a Wi-Fi connection.

What Immobility Monitor Does

The Immobility Monitoring system is an electronic device designed toalert remote individuals, by using the landline or mobile telephonecommunications network or the internet communication system or a hardwire connection in the event that an individual living in their premiseshas failed to remain mobile during normal preprogrammed activityperiods.

The device is supplied as a plug and play device with a factory defaultready to operate setting.

The main control system can be programmed and changes effected to thefollowing:

-   -   inactivity time periods, messages, contact details and ambient        temperature settings and amended by the user or their        representative by direct interface with the main Immobility        Sensor device.

The user of the device is able to set and amend each alarm period on thedevice.

The user is able to record and amend up to 10 audio messages on thedevice.

To assist in setting the device up initially, the device is capable ofcapturing and recording normal mobility activities for days or weeks ofthe new user,. From this test captured data it is possible to analyzethe data and configure the unit to the exact requirements of theindividual user.

This invention can be programmed to monitor individual events rangingfrom one second through to a maximum of 72 hours for each hour of theday. It is also possible to record different individual events for everyhour of every day of the week.

The device is supplied with a factory set activity routine, which willallow the device to be supplied as a plug and play device.

When the Monitoring system is activated, its prime purpose is to countdown the seconds, minutes and or hours of the current monitoringimmobility period, and to reach zero, at which time it will go intoalarm mode one and two and summon assistance.

The system is only stopped reaching zero by receiving an activitydetection signal, as a result of the detection of movement. Thismovement detection will cause the immobility monitoring device toinstruct the on board countdown sequence to stop, and to restart a newhours and minutes countdown period again.

Each countdown activation period can vary, depending upon the hour ofday and the day of the week it is activated. This reset/restart triggeris activated each time any of the sensors located in the home detectmovement of the occupier in the premises.

The Immobility Sensor device will capture and store all daily activitiesof a person. The data obtained from the immobility monitor can be viewedon the device display or can be downloaded to a mobile device. Thisinformation can be used to analyze the behavioral pattern for theindividual, to allow assessment of their overall daily weekly activitiespattern.

With this type of monitoring it is necessary to disable the device whenthe user leaves home. The danger is that they will forget to rearm thedevice when they return. This invention is unique because it will detecttheir return, and remind them with an audible alert, and instruct themto return the unit to active mode. If they fail to obey or understandthis instruction, help will be automatically called.

When the person leaves the premises, they will turn their immobilitysensor to away mode. When the immobility sensor is in the away mode thedevice may then be used as a security or intruder alarm device system.

If when the owner returns home they do not return the monitor to Homemode, the device will automatically ask the owner to return the deviceto home mode.

If whilst in away mode activity is detected in the home and the deviceis not returned to home mode within 60 seconds, the unit willautomatically access a dedicated sub routine to transmit an intruderdetection signal to the assigned contacts programmed in the system.

In particular, The Immobility Monitoring alarm system is an electronicdevice, with software that is designed to detect when a person displaysa prolonged or pre-determined or pre-programmed period of inactivity.The device comprises:

-   -   an Immobility Sensor, i.e., the Main Control unit;    -   an immobility detection device, i.e., a passive infrared motion        detector;    -   mobility activity indicators, i.e., mechanical or radio circuit        contacts to report circuit open/close changes;    -   emergency medical alarm pendant/button i.e., a depress button        device to summon assistance;    -   mobility notifier, i.e., device worn on the person of the user        to report any changes; a controller unit and    -   compatible software and hardware to operate the system.

The device will enter an alarm state and communicate that inactivityevent to an external resources and request immediate assistance afterthe inactivity period has been exceeded.

Inactivity Periods

Each hour of a day can be programmed with multiple and varyinginactivity alarm time periods within any 24 hour time period.

Each alarm time period can be varied from 1 second of inactivity betweenalarm events, to multiple hours, minutes and or seconds between alarmevents.

Each day of the week, and or each day of each month can be programmedwith differing hours and or minutes to alarm periods.

System Activation

The immobility Sensor will activate when a pre-programmed period of timehas elapsed. This pre-programmed period of time represents anunacceptable period of immobility and will initiate alarm state/stage 1.

When the user activates a manual emergency alarm activation trigger,Alarm state/stage 2 will operate to immediately summon assistance.

System Start-up

When switched on, the Immobility Sensor alarm system will start thehours/minutes to next alarm. The hours/minutes to next alarm period willbe determined from the time and date of system activation tableprogrammed in to the device. (See example FIG. 1).

System Reset/Activity Detection

The active hours/minutes to next alarm state will be stopped whenactivity is detected. Consequently, new hours/minutes to next alarmperiod will start. The new hours/minutes to alarm period will bedetermined from the time and date of system reset table programmed in tothe device. (See example FIG. 1).

Mobility Detection

Passive Infrared device (PIR) can be located within the ImmobilitySensor device.

Passive Infrared device (PIR) or movement alarm beams can be positionedaround the property of the user.

Mobility activity indicators can be on the person of the system user.

The Immobility Sensor can record the time, date and identity of themobility detection device.

All mobility and or activity notifiers can communicate with theImmobility Sensor device, using Internet, Telecommunications, hardwire,or radio communication systems.

The Alarm Process

Immobility Sensor will commence the alarm status when hours/minutes tonext alarm period has expired. Entering alarm stages/states 1 and 2.

The Immobility Monitor is designed to communicate an alarm event toremote individuals using any of the following: hardwire connection,Internet, telecommunications or radio communication systems.

Setting up the Device

The Immobility Sensor device is able to capture and record the time,date and location of normal activities over a nominated period of time.This historic data can be used to assist the user in establishing thebest time sequences to use when setting up the device.

This captured data can be analysed to provide a template for optimumalarm time settings. These optimum alarm timetable settings can then beentered on the device as the user default hours to alarm settings.

Historic Activity Reports Extraction & Exporting

The Immobility Sensor device will capture over 6 months of activityincidents, for example. These incidents are stored with time, date,device location and identity.

From this data a series of daily/weekly activity reports will begenerated. These reports will be compiled into a compilation report toallow extraction of any unusual activity behaviour.

The captured activity data can be exported from the monitoring device bytransmission of the data using Internet, telecommunications, hardwire,or radio communication systems.

The captured activity data can also be exported from the monitoringdevice by inserting a removable memory device directly into themonitoring device. Upon detection of this removable memory device, allstored activity records will be automatically downloaded onto theremovable device.

Automatic System configuration

Configure and or amend within the monitoring systems memory, theimmobility duration periods, contacts information, and recorded messagesby utilising a memory device. When plugged directly into the device thisnew information will automatically upload new files from the memorydevice, when the memory device is detected.

Amendments to the optimum alarm timetable can be uploaded from a remotelocation by using Internet, telecommunications or radio communicationsystems.

Manual System Configuration

Enter and amend the contact details for the list of nominated careersvia the system keypad.

Enter recorded messages via the system microphone and keypad

Enter and Amend the Immobility Sensor Optimum alarm timetables via theImmobility Sensor operating keypad.

Prime System Functions

When the Monitoring system is operational, its prime purpose is toattempt to countdown hours and minutes to reach zero. When the devicereaches zero it will automatically enter into its alarm state (see alarmstages 1 and 2). Once it enters this alarm state, its prime function isto summon assistance.

The Monitoring system will stop reaching zero and going into an alarmstate by receiving a movement detection signal from a movement detectiondevice or via a manual intervention signal.

This movement detection/intervention signal will cause the countdownsequence to stop and restart again. The device will then allocate thenext time alarm from the optimum alarm timetable programmed in thedevice software. See example table FIG. 1.

The device is designed to capture, record and report multiple activitysignals. The monitoring device will record the time, date,identity/location of each activity signal device.

The monitoring device will at regular intervals compile a report fromthe collected movement data. This report will then be sent to one ormore nominated locations utilising Internet, telecommunications or radiocommunication systems. These reports are designed to provide anhistorical report of activities, highlighting unusual activity patterns.

How Immobility Monitor Works

Immobility Sensor is a monitoring device, designed to call, forassistance when it detects a prolonged period of inactivity.

When the Monitoring system is activated, the unit will start a countdownsequence as per the time of day hours/minutes remaining to alarmactivation; see FIG. 1.

When the Immobility Sensor ends a countdown period, the alarm systemwill be activated. The alarm system comprises of two alarmstages/states, Alarm stage 1 and 2.

The Alarm Stages 1 and 2

This invention will automatically enter alarm stage 1 when it detects aprolonged period of inactivity.

When an alarm stage 2 is activated, the Immobility Sensor System willautomatically initiate and communicate an emergency message to anominated series of individuals, requesting assistance utilizingInternet, telecommunications, or radio communication technologies

When switched on, the Immobility Sensor will utilise the on board clockand calendar to select the current inactivity period (see FIG. 1). If atthe end of any allotted pre-programmed inactivity period no activity hasbeen detected, the device will automatically enter alarm stage 1.

Alarm Stage 1

The function of alarm state 1 is to establish that the unit user is notable to indicate to or move to the immobility sensor device to indicatetheir wellbeing by depressing a wellbeing button. If at the end of theallotted stage 1 alarm period no activity is detected by the device, theImmobility Monitor will commence alarm stage 2.

Alarm state 1 only remains active for a short time. Alarm stage 1 causesthe Immobility Monitor to communicate a loud audible alarm message tothe system user, advising them that no movement has been detectionduring the current immobility period. The unit then requests a manualintervention from the system user.

If the user provides this manual intervention as proof of wellbeingbefore it enters alarm stage 2, it will immediately reset the immobilityalarm period again and will not enter alarm state 2 mode.

If no intervention is received within a pre-programmed short period oftime, the device will enter alarm stage 2.

Option 1

If alarm stage 1 fails to attract manual intervention, the ImmobilityMonitor will automatically send message to nominated careers and to a3^(rd) party tracking device.

This message will activate an automatic response from the 3^(rd) partytracking device, causing it to broadcast its current locationcoordinates. The coordinates will be sent via the 3^(rd) party trackingdevice to the nominated person.

Alarm Stage 2

When alarm stage 2 has been activated, the device will access the onboard database list of nominated individuals/devices. The ImmobilitySensor will then broadcast a request for assistance to each databaseentry in turn. When connected, the Immobility Sensor will communicatethe appropriate alarm event message utilising Internet,telecommunications or radio communication systems. It will continue tocall all individuals/devices on the list until it receives anacknowledgment from the external source to indicate that assistance willbe rendered.

When in immobility monitoring mode, if the Immobility sensor detectsactivity, the countdown sequence will be automatically stopped, and anew countdown period will restart. This new reset period will bedetermined by the current time and date of each reset event. See exampletable algorithm in FIG. 1. This table in FIG. 1 is an example of thesetting only. This table if necessary will be individually configuredfor each user.

Each alarm period of an individual's immobility can be programmed withevent periods ranging from minutes through to 72 hours in duration.

Software

The software has been designed and programmed to monitor for prolongedinactivity periods. It will enter an alarm state when any one of themany and differing programmed period of inactivity time has elapsed.

Mobility Detection Devices

Event and activity detection devices in the form of emergency alertbutton, motion, movement or activity sensors, which can communicate withthe main monitoring system, using any or all of the followingcommunication protocols: radio communication technology, wireless radiocommunication, Internet communication technology or communication usinghard wire connection. These devices are located/installed on the or nearthe person or around the property of the user. The purpose of themonitoring devices is to detect and report back to the monitoringsystem, the activity/movement of the system user.

Immobility Sensor

A receiver device (Immobility Sensor System control unit) locatedlocally or at a remote location. This device will receive signals fromthe manual intervention devices, motion, movement or sensor transmissiondevices using Internet based protocols, mobile or hardwiredtelecommunications technologies or radio communication systems.

The Immobility Sensor will receive signals from one or more of thefollowing devices: an emergency alert button; a motion/movement sensor;or an activity sensor device. These devices are located on or near theperson of the user or property of the user.

When a signal is received from any one of these devices, the immobilitySensor device will stop the minutes or hours and minutes remaining toalarm.

If the signal is from an emergency alert device, the unit willimmediately enter alarm stage 2 and call for immediate assistance.

If the signal is transmitted from an immobility or movement detectiondevice, the receiver device will initiate a new minutes and or hours andminutes countdown to alarm period as per the table in FIG. 1.

Immobility Detection Periods

Each hour of each day can be programmed with multiple and differingimmobility periods.

The immobility periods set for each hour of each day of the week canvary.

The immobility periods set for each hour of each day of each month canvary.

Each immobility period can vary in duration from 1 second to 72 hours.

The Equipment

The Immobility Monitoring system is made up of a number of components.The novel component for this invention is the Immobility Sensor softwarelogic, and hardware designed and manufactured by Seniors Wellbeing Ltd.The device interfaces with external detection/monitoring devices, whichare designed to detect, and report of localised movement or activity.They can communicate these activities utilising hardwire connection,Internet, telecommunications or radio communication systems. Thesoftware logic will utilise a unique logic set to assign a uniqueimmobility period to each hour of each day, week or month.

The system may be integrated with another device such as a controllerunit which comprises a communication interface. Additional features orfunctions on the controller may include a USB port, a receiver, andauxiliary speakers.

The Immobility Sensor system may comprise the following components:

-   -   1. Movement sensor/transmission device/devices which is/are        located on the person of the homeowner and/or around the home        where it/they will have the ability to detect movement around        the home. Their purpose is to detect activity/movement of the        owner in and around the home, and communicate this detection to        the main immobility Sensor unit.    -   2. Ambient temperature monitoring and transmission equipment is        located in or around the home of the user.    -   3. The main Immobility. Sensor unit can be located in the home        of the user. Or it can be remotely located. If it is located in        the home of the user, it will require connection to power and        connection to an external telecommunications network, and/or        have access to the internet network.    -   4. If the main immobility monitor timing device is located at a        remote location, it will receive each activity and or        immobility, movement and alarm notifications either by the use        of telecommunication technology, internet technology, hardwired        communication, radio or via satellite connectivity.    -   5. The immobility monitor has been designed to receive signals        from sensor devices located on, near or around the home of the        user. These signals will stop the hours to alarm period in the        immobility monitor and restart new hours to alarm period as per        the table in FIG. 1.    -   6. The receiver device and or the motion detection device will        record and store movement and or triggered events, their        locations, times and dates.    -   7. An Immobility Sensor device with a programmable 24 hour 7 day        timer with the ability to be set variable seconds, minutes or        hours to alarm activation periods'in any of the hours in the 7        day period. Any one alarm activation period can range from 1        second to 72 hours.    -   8. A communication device, which can store the contact details        for at least 6 different locations.    -   9. When alarm state two is entered, the on board communication        device will in sequence attempt to communicate in turn with the        locations listed/stored in the communication device and deliver        the details of the location and the necessary information about        the monitored individual and the exact nature of that particular        alarm event.    -   10. A communication device that can distinguish 6 different        alarm event types.    -   11. The immobility monitoring device has the ability to receive        and understand an acknowledgment signal from the message        recipient, to indicate that the message has been successfully        received by an appropriate agent who indicates by sending a        signal back to the device to indicate that they will action this        message. If this receipt acknowledgment signal is not received,        the Immobility Sensor communication device will disconnect from        the current communication and will move on to the next contact        record in the database of parties to be contacted. When the        correct response is received, the communication device will stop        the emergency call out routine.    -   12. A communication device which has the ability to store in        excess of 10 recorded messages. These messages can be used to        deliver a message relating to the exact nature of the alarm        event. I.e. inactivity, fire, intruder, ambient temperature        alert, panic button, return system to home mode etc.    -   13. A communication device which has the ability to transmit the        appropriate recorded message, based on the nature of the        incoming alarm mode, i.e. inactivity, fire, intruder, ambient        temperature alert, panic button, return system to home mode etc.    -   14. A mobile, remote transmission device with an emergency        button which has the ability to transmit to the Immobility        Monitor an emergency signal to cause the unit to engage        immediate alarm mode (stage two).    -   15. A device with a home or away indicator, so that when the        home owner leaves the property, they will turn the Immobility        Monitor to away status. This will convert the monitor into a        domestic intruder alarm system. If movement is detected whilst        in this mode it will communicate an intruder detection message        by using the appropriate contact individual details in the        database of event contacts.    -   16. When the home owner returns, they will turn the Immobility        Monitor home mode. This will return the monitor to its primary        immobility monitoring function.    -   17. A device that will alert the user to return the Immobility        Sensor to primary function if they forget to do so.

Installation

The Immobility Sensor unit base unit will be installed in a convenientlocation around the home, close to power and communication sources, andis able to allow the home owner to interact with the unit.

The immobility Sensor unit can be installed remotely and receiveactivity alerts as described above.

The remote activity sensor units will be on or near the person of thehome owner or in one or multiple positions around the home.

Option. A personal activity sensor unit will be on the person of thesystem user.

Option. A panic emergency button will be on the person of the homeowner.

Option. A panic emergency button will be in the home or on the surfaceof the immobility monitor.

A cancel alarm button will be in the home or on the surface of theimmobility Sensor.

A system programming uploading and downloading port will be in the homeof the user to allow automatic configuration setup of the device.

Programming, uploading and downloading of the Monitoring System can becarried out using a remote internet connection.

Programming buttons and a display will be on the surface of theimmobility Sensor to aid system configuration

The unit may operate using 110v-240v power supply. The unit may operateusing 12v power supply.

The unit can utilize access to a dedicated or non dedicated telephoneline; or the system can utilize mobile telecommunications technology;

or

the system can utilize internet based communications technologies;

or

the system can utilize satellite communications technologies.

Immobility Alarm Sequence

An alarm event will result when the minutes and or hours to activationperiod has reached zero. This will force the Immobility Monitor tocommence local alarm mode stage one.

Stage One

The local alarm mode process will activate a localised audiblealarm/message which will request the owner to indicate that they arewell by cancelling the impending alarm process. If no interaction isreceived, the alarm sequence (stage two) will commence 60 seconds afterstage one alarm mode has commenced.

Stage Two

Alarm mode stage two will commence 60 seconds after stage one hascommenced, unless stage one is cancelled by the system user. Theimmobility Sensor will commence communicating with the first contact onthe contact list. When the connection to the first contact has beensuccessfully been established, the appropriate audio message will bedelivered, stating that a situation has occurred, the owners detailswill be transmitted. A request for message receipt/message understandingand a message response communication will be requested by the device.This response can be generated by the message recipient by depressing abutton on their communication device. If the requested return signal isnot received within a defined period, the unit will disconnect from thefirst contact and commence contacting the next contact on the list. Thiswill continue up to 10 times or until the correct response has beenreceived.

Once the correct signal/response has been received, the unit will enterstandby mode.

FIG. 1 illustrates the recording of a Schedule as an embodiment of thepresent invention.

The times below can be factory default. The reset hours/minutes to resetcan vary from user to user. The hours/minutes to activation can be setfrom 1 second, up to 72 hours with 7 day variable or same option.

Immobility Monitor Features

On/off switch

-   -   Home and away buttons (unit enters intruder alarm mode when        turned off)    -   Retains all information when power is lost    -   Inbuilt real time Clock    -   Inbuilt full Calendar    -   Automatic leap year adjustment    -   Visual time and day clock    -   Removable media technology    -   Automatic software update using plug in media technology    -   Activity event audit trail    -   Visual activity events on system display    -   Alarm event audit trail    -   On board microphone    -   On board speakers    -   60 second voice alert prior to transmitting alarm    -   Multiple recorded messages storage areas    -   Emergency pendent with Activate and cancel button (Optional)    -   Ambient room temperature monitor too cold/too hot    -   Onboard help & cancel buttons    -   Backlit Help & Cancel button    -   Local & remote programming/control using on board key pad and        removable technology    -   Large backlit, high intensity LCD Display for full visual        description of events and programming options    -   Storage area for phone numbers/contact information    -   Respond to both DTMF and GSM incoming signals    -   Programmable voice annunciation    -   Heavy duty rechargeable battery with inbuilt battery testing        capabilities    -   Inactivity timed monitoring function (FIG. 1)    -   Wired, wireless Devices and ip address devices (Pet Proof PIRs,        Fire, alarm call pendant, spare.    -   Automatic system tests, power fail and low battery alarm    -   Automatic telephone line failure alarm    -   Onboard programmable cancel button    -   In-built range test function with full audio and visual        verification    -   Automatic busy ring detect    -   Waterproof pendants (Interchangeable for around the neck, wrist        or wall mounted).

Communication Devices

1. A communication device is an interface which can in sequencecommunicate with the locations, contacts, devices listed/stored in theImmobility sensor device. It will communicate utilising any of thefollowing protocols: Internet, mobile and hardwired telecommunicationsprotocols or radio/terrestrial communication systems.

2. The communication device can call all 10 locations in sequence. Itwill cease to call locations when it has delivered its call forassistance message and has received an acknowledgment of receiptmessage.

3. The communication device that will call all 10 locations in sequence1 to 10 and will continue sequence 10 further times until it receives anacknowledgment of receipt.

4. The communication device with the ability to store in excess of 10recorded messages or commands.

5. The communication device with the ability to communicate theappropriate message, or command, based on the nature of the alarm event.

6. The communication device that can communicate status of the systemand activity reports to external resources.

The system or device comprises the following additional features:

7. A mobile alarm button device, which can be worn on the person of theuser, or placed near the user. This device will have the ability tocommunicate with the Immobility Monitor, utilising Internet,telecommunications or radio communication systems. The signal from thisdevice will activate the Immobility Sensor unit into immediate alarmmode stage two.

8. A device that will automatically instruct the owner to turn thedevice to immobility

Sensor mode when they return to the property. This will return themonitor to its primary function.

9. A device that will warn of intruders when the system user is away andthe immobility monitor's Away button is turned on.

10. A device that can distinguish the identity of different alarmdevices, such as Fire detection device, Gas detection device, Movementdetection/sensor device identification.

11. A device that will alarm if the ambient temperature reaches preprogrammed extremes.

While considerable emphasis has been placed herein on the specificfeatures of the preferred embodiment, it will be appreciated that manyadditional features can be added and that many changes can be made inthe preferred embodiment without departing from the principles of theinvention. These and other changes in the preferred embodiment of theinvention will be apparent to those skilled in the is art from thedisclosure herein, whereby it is to be distinctly understood that theforegoing descriptive matter is to be interpreted merely as illustrativeof the invention and not as a limitation.

1. A system for monitoring immobility of a person or user comprising oneor a series of sensors or monitors and one or a series of programmabletimers, and compatible software to enable programming of a plurality oftimers monitoring from minute to minute, or day to day, or week to week,or month to month, or on an yearly basis wherein one of the said timersis set to be loaded at one hour intervals to correspond to a multiple ofunique predetermined hourly settings to detect activity of the person oruser.
 2. The system according to claim 1 wherein the timer loads itssettings corresponding to a predetermined setting for that hour, and ifno activity is detected during the active hour, this setting is notimplemented.
 3. The system according to claim 1 wherein the timerdefaults its settings corresponding to a predetermined setting to anactive hour, and if activity is detected during the active hour, thissetting is implemented.
 4. The system according to claim 1 wherein thesystem functions as an intruder alarm.
 5. The system according to claim1 wherein the sensors and/or monitors are programmed to record dailyactivities of a person to produce the data obtained from the recordwhich is used to formulate a behavioral pattern for the individualperson.
 6. The system according to claim 1 wherein the system iscompatible for use with a Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, ZigBee or similar
 7. Thesystem according to claim 1 wherein the system activates an emergencyeach time a daily recorded inactivity period has been detected.
 8. Thesystem according to claim 7 wherein contact personnel is alerted as aresult of the depressing of a remote emergency button in the event of anemergency.
 9. (canceled)
 10. The system according to claim 1 wherein thesystem monitors and calls for assistance if the ambient temperaturereaches and records below or above the pre set parameters.
 11. Thesystem according to claim 1 further comprising a battery standby systeminstalled to provide full operational capabilities for up to 24 hours,independent of any external power source.
 12. A method for monitoringthe immobility of a person or user comprising the steps of: (i)providing a system comprising an immobility sensor, an immobilitydetection device, mobility activity indicators, mobility notifier, acontroller unit, a timer or a series of programmable timers andcompatible software and hardware, one of the said timers is set to beloaded at one hour intervals to correspond to a multiple of uniquepredetermined hourly settings; (ii) loading a timer settingcorresponding to a predetermined setting for that hour, and if noactivity is detected during the active hour, this setting is notimplemented; or (iii) loading a default timer setting corresponding to apredetermined setting to an active hour, and if activity is detectedduring the active hour, this setting is implemented; and (iv) activatingan alarm by two phases, Stage 1 and Stage 2; (v) detecting apredetermined period of inactivity by an Immobility sensor therebyactivating Stage 1 alarm; (vi) broadcasting a Stage 1 alarm message viaan on-board audio recorder/player and internal and external speakers tothe user, requesting the user to respond to a recorded message, uponactivation of the Stage 1 alarm; (vii) playing of a recorded message viathe speaker/s to the user via an audio player, requesting the user todepress a cancel alarm button; upon activation of the alarm; and (viii)activating the Stage 2 alarm if the user fails to intervene or respondto the Stage 1 alarm.
 13. The method according to claim 12 wherein ifthe user fails to intervene or respond to Stage 1 alarm, and the Stage 2alarm is activated, an automatic emergency alert message is sent to anemergency contact or contacts.
 14. The system according to claim 1further comprising a Stage 1 alarm and a Stage 2 alarm, and an emergencyalert button.
 15. The system according to claim 14 wherein the button isworn by the user or placed near the user.
 16. The system according toclaim 14 wherein if the user fails to intervene or respond to the Stage1 alarm, and the Stage 2 alarm is activated, an automatic emergencyalert message is sent to an emergency contact or contacts.
 17. Thesystem according to claim 1 wherein the sensors or monitors areprogrammed to record all daily activities of all persons in a home, toproduce activity reports.
 18. The system according to claim 17 whereindata from the daily activity report is used to formulate a behavioralpattern for the individual person or user.
 19. The system according toclaim 18 wherein the activity report can be used to generate an actualand/or average week report in the life of the user.
 20. (canceled)
 21. Amethod of monitoring immobility of a person or user comprising: (a)activating a sensor which detects a period of activity; (b) detectingand recording a period of activity based on a timer or a series ofprogrammable timers and compatible software and hardware, one of thetimers is set to be loaded at one hour intervals to correspond to amultiple of unique predetermined hourly settings; (c) activating analarm set by two phases, Stage 1 and Stage 2; (d) loading a timersetting corresponding to a predetermined setting for that hour, and ifno activity is detected during the active hour, this setting is notimplemented; or (e) loading a default timer setting corresponding to apredetermined setting to an active hour, and if activity is detectedduring the active hour, this setting is implemented; and (f) detecting apredetermined period of inactivity by an Immobility sensor therebyactivating Stage 1 alarm; (g) broadcasting a Stage 1 alarm message viaan on-board audio recorder/player and internal and external speakers tothe user, requesting the user to respond to a recorded message, uponactivation of the Stage 1 alarm; (h) playing of a recorded message, uponactivation of the alarm, via the speaker/s to the user via the audioplayer, requesting the user to depress a cancel alarm button; and (i)activating the Stage 2 alarm if the user fails to intervene or respondto the Stage 1 alarm.
 22. The method according to claim 21 wherein ifthe user fails to intervene or respond to Stage 1 alarm, and the Stage 2alarm is activated, an automatic emergency alert message is sent to anemergency contact or contacts. 23-34. (canceled)